Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. Although many people think the bicycle was invented in the 19th century, its origins actually go back further. The first two-wheeled vehicle, called a 'draisine', was invented by a German baron in 1817. It had no pedals; riders pushed their feet against the ground. Later, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, creating the 'velocipede'. However, this design was uncomfortable due to its rigid frame and wooden wheels. It wasn't until the 1880s that the 'safety bicycle' with a chain drive and equal-sized wheels became popular, making cycling much safer and more practical for ordinary people.
❓ ¿Cuál fue un problema importante con el velocípedo, como se mencionó en la conferencia?
A. A. Era demasiado pesada para subir cuestas.
B. B. No tenía frenos.
C. C. Era incómodo debido a su estructura rígida y sus ruedas de madera.
D. D. Era demasiado caro para la mayoría de la gente.
✅ 正确答案
C. It was uncomfortable because of its rigid frame and wooden wheels.